Tashkent: The Modern Heart of Uzbekistan with a Historic Soul
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a fascinating blend of Soviet-era architecture, ancient Islamic heritage, and modern urban development. As the largest city in Central Asia, it offers a mix of vibrant bazaars, impressive mosques, and contemporary entertainment venues. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture lover, Tashkent has something for you.
Tashkent is often overlooked in favor of Samarkand or Bukhara, but this city is an essential stop for those wanting to understand the dynamic culture of Uzbekistan. In this guide, we share the 7 must-visit places in Tashkent to experience its rich history and vibrant present. Below, we provide details on ticket prices and must-see sites
1. Chorsu Bazaar
Chorsu Bazaar is the beating heart of Tashkent, where locals come to buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional textiles. The iconic blue-domed structure is filled with vendors selling everything from dried fruits to handwoven carpets. It's the perfect place to experience Uzbekistan's bustling market culture.
Estimated time to visit: 1-2 hours
Price: Free
2. Khast Imam Complex
This religious and architectural masterpiece is home to the famous Quran of Caliph Uthman, one of the oldest in the world. The complex includes mosques, madrasahs, and the grand Tillya Sheikh Mosque.
Estimated time to visit: 1.5 hours
Price: Free (+ an entrance fee of ~5 USD to see the Quran)
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3. Tashkent Metro
One of the most beautiful metro systems in the world, Tashkent's underground stations are adorned with mosaics, chandeliers, and Soviet-era artwork. Each station tells a different story, making the metro a tourist attraction in itself.
Estimated time to visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Price: $0.15 per ride
4. Amir Timur Square
Named after the famous conqueror, this central square is surrounded by landmarks such as the Amir Timur Museum and the iconic Hotel Uzbekistan. The square is a great spot for a relaxing walk, offering picturesque views, fountains, and a glimpse into Uzbekistan’s Soviet past.
Estimated time to visit: 1 hour
Price: Free
5. Independence Square
The political heart of Uzbekistan, Independence Square is home to significant monuments such as the Crying Mother Monument and government buildings. It’s a great place to learn about the country's history and enjoy a peaceful walk in a green setting.
Estimated time to visit: 1 hour
Price: Free
6.Navoi Theatre & Ballet
Built during the Soviet era, this theatre is a cultural gem of Tashkent, hosting world-class opera and ballet performances. If you're lucky, you might catch an evening show at an affordable price.
Estimated time to visit: 2-3 hours (depending on the performance)
Price: $5-10 for tickets
7. State Museum of History of Uzbekistan
For history lovers, this museum offers a deep dive into Uzbekistan’s past, from ancient civilizations to the Soviet era. The exhibits include artifacts, manuscripts, and archaeological discoveries.
Estimated time to visit: 2 hours
Price: Around $2-3
Where to Stay in Tashkent? Find our hotel recommendations
We have carefully selected accommodations based on their proximity to key attractions and their comfort levels, click on hotel's names to discover our selection
Art Plaza Hotel (Our stay, highly recommend)
How to Get to and Around Tashkent
Tashkent is well-connected by air, train, and road. The best way to reach the city is by flight via Tashkent International Airport. You can also arrive by train from major Uzbek cities:
From Samarkand: Around 2 hours by high-speed Afrosiyob train ($7-$10)
From Bukhara: Around 4 hours by high-speed train ($15-$20)
From Khiva: Around 14-16 hours by train ($20-$25)
Once in Tashkent, the most convenient way to move around is by using Yandex Go, the official ride-hailing app. The metro is another excellent and cheap option, while taxis and buses are widely available.
Where to Eat in Tashkent? discover the best retaurants
Tashkent offers a fantastic culinary scene blending Uzbek and international flavors. Here are some top restaurant picks:
Plov Center ($) – The best place to try authentic Uzbek plov.
Caravan ($$) – A cozy restaurant with traditional Uzbek dishes and live music.
Affresco ($$) – A great Italian restaurant for those craving something different.
Navvat Lounge ($$) – A stylish spot offering both Uzbek and European cuisine.
Tashkent is a city full of contrasts, where history meets modernity. Whether you're exploring its grand squares, diving into the bazaars, or simply enjoying the local food, Tashkent promises a memorable experience. Safe travels!
